John O'Reilly

Solo claves usher in the authentic Latin percussion section that sets the style for “Pico Rivera.” A simple but effective bass line joins the percussion section in establishing an interesting accompaniment for the syncopated melody that follows. Rich harmonies that utilize a variety of seventh chords dominate the second theme and the “stop time” percussion fills that open the coda. A brief modulation brings us to a restatement of the opening melody with a new countermelody in the trumpets and horns. Pico Rivera is a city in Southern California that has a long tradition of producing excellent bands.

This lovely Scottish folk song provides a wonderful opportunity for young bands to learn how to play in an expressive manner. All instruments get to play the beautiful melody and the gently flowing accompaniment patterns further enhance this very musical arrangement. Correlated with Accent on Achievement, Book 1, page 30.

Explore the mysteries of The Lost Kingdom with your beginning band. Using only six notes, the tonality of C natural minor is clearly established in the beginning. Repeated pitch eighth note patterns form a driving rhythmic accompaniment to the broad melodic lines presented in the trumpets. Effective percussion solos using tambourine, snare drum, and bass drum add to the drama of this powerful original composition. Correlated to Accent on Achievement, Book 1, page 15.

Put those beginning trumpet players right out in front of your band and let them shine in this very easy original work that only uses six pitches (B-flat to G) and very basic repeated pitch eighth note patterns. Scored with only one trumpet and clarinet part, this bright feature will work well on that very first mid-winter concert.